Darrell Max Bechtel

D. Max Bechtel, 89, died peacefully on Jan. 2, 2023, at The Welsh Home of Rocky River, Ohio. Max was the loving husband of Jane Ann Bechtel (deceased), whom he married Sept. 2, 1961, and the beloved father of Suzanne and Sharon Bechtel.

He was born Jan. 21,1933, in Roaring Spring, to the late James R. Bechtel and Florence (Yingling) Bechtel.

He is survived by two sisters: Mary Lee Green of Roaring Spring and Margaret (Peggy) Querry of Martinsburg, and two brothers: Ronald G. of Chantilly, VA; and Kenneth W. of Mechanicsburg. Additionally, he is survived by numerous nieces and nephews.

He was preceded in death by brother James C. Bechtel, sister Donna B. Myers, brother-in-law Charles B. Querry, brother-in-law John R. Green, sister-in-law Thelma Bechtel, brother-in-law Dr. Carl B. Myers, and great-nephews Matthew R. Hazenstab and Craig Delozier.

Max graduated from Roaring Spring High School in 1950. After graduating from high school he served in the United States Army Signal Corp, primarily in Germany. Upon his discharge from the Army, he attended Indiana State Teachers College and graduated in 1959 with a B.S. in social studies education. In later years he earned a master’s degree from Wittenburg University in Guidance and Counseling. Max held numerous jobs in public education and retired from Lakewood High School, Ohio, where he served many years as a school counselor.

Max was a former college football player, former high school football coach, and for many years scouted for high school and college level football teams.

In retirement, Max and Jane enjoyed traveling, with frequent trips to Vermont and to Garden City, South Carolina. Max’s love of history also took them on many memorable trips to follow in the footsteps of Lewis and Clark. They both enjoyed volunteering their time as well as spending time with their families and friends. A memorial service will be announced at a future date.

The family suggests contributions in his memory to Good Soil Lutheran Ministries, 20300 Hilliard Blvd, Rocky River, OH 44116 or The Welsh Home - Rocky River, 22199 Center Ridge Rd, Rocky River, OH 44116, Ohio.